Mary, Queen of Scots (from "Universal Magazine") 1752

This print of Mary, Queen of Scots, was made in 1752 by Benjamin Cole for the "Universal Magazine." It's an engraving, meaning the image was incised into a metal plate, inked, and then pressed onto paper. Notice how the lines vary in thickness and density to create tone and shadow. This was achieved through careful control of the engraver's tools. It was a skilled, labor-intensive process, a far cry from today’s digital printing. The print was intended for mass consumption, bound into a magazine, and distributed widely. The print's subject matter is quite striking: Mary is depicted holding a crucifix, with the executioner’s ax laid out before her. Below, there is a scene of her execution. The image, made through a distinctly laborious process of engraving, speaks to the turbulent politics of the time, and the power of print to disseminate images and ideas to a broad audience. It reminds us that even seemingly simple prints were the product of skilled labor and complex social forces.